Trend Micro says the new version of TMMS is easier to use because it comes with the company's OfficeScan Client/Server Edition (OSCE) 8.0 console, which also manages PC and server security. By installing TMMS 5.0 onto their OSCE 8.0 console, users can manage desktop PCs and enterprise servers alongside mobile devices.
Trend Micro's OfficeScan architecture
(Click to enlarge)TMMS 5.0 includes new data encryption and authentication capabilities. Instead of requiring special "containers" or specific encrypted folders, the software encrypts all data on a device in real time, the company claims.
On-device authentication policies are said to enable wiping all device data automatically if certain policies are not complied with. These can include violating time access restrictions or misuse of PINs or passwords, according to Trend Micro.
As with previous versions of the software, TMMS 5.0 includes anti-malware features that are said to detect and block viruses, worms, Trojans, spyware, and "evolving malicious mobile code" on handhelds and storage cards. Trend Micro says the software can perform automatic, real-time virus scans and also allows mobile users to initiate scans manually.
The program also includes a built-in firewall, which the company terms "critical protection for the increasing number of WiFi-enabled mobile devices." The firewall monitors inbound and outbound network traffic and blocks unauthorized activity, according to Trend Micro.
Trend Micro's OfficeScan Server runs on Windows 2003 Server, Storage Server 2003, Cluster Server 2003, or Windows 2000 Server, and the Web-based management console requires Internet Explorer 5.5 or later. TMMS 5.0 supports Windows Mobile 5.0 and 6.0, both for smartphones and PDAs.
According to the company, TMMS 5.0 is available in a "standard edition" that includes all the features mentioned above except for encryption, and starts at $35 per device. An "advanced edition" adds encryption, but doubles the price.
Availability for both editions is scheduled for December 2007.
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